Join us from Aug. 3 to Aug. 24, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., for four plein air sessions. Explore the Garden through the pleasure of watercolor painting with artist Ann Kremers. Students will learn about composing space, using color, and expressing light through demonstrations and assignments offered at the beginning of each class. We will then move outdoors to practice seeing and painting the beauty of the garden. Ann will offer individual encouragement and suggestions throughout the painting sessions. Beginning and experienced painters are welcome. Classes will be held rain or shine; the Center House and its porch provide a lovely waterproof venue. Materials list available upon registration.

Ann Kremers is an artist and calligrapher from Bennington, Vermont. She teaches watercolor painting, drawing, and calligraphy to beginners as well as experienced painters, some of whom work with her on an ongoing basis. She has received numerous commissions for paintings and created calligraphy for institutions and private individuals. Learn more about Ann’s work at annkremersart.com

Supplies List:

WATERCOLOR SUPPLY LIST

Note: If you have watercolor painting supplies bring what you have and, please review the list to make sure that you bring everything you will need.  If you don’t have the brands, exact colors, sizes, etc. that are recommended you do not have to buy them, just bring what you have. Supplies can be ordered from cheapjoes.com, dickblick.com, and jerrysartarama.com. Supplies are also available locally at Jay’s in Bennington, Miller’s and Michael’s in Pittsfield, and JWS Art Supplies in Great Barrington.  Miller’s and Jay’s will give a 10% student discount if you go in with your list. Anne has done her best to make this list affordable by choosing student-grade paints and paper.  You can always upgrade.

PAPER--Canson MONTVAL (The Montval part is important.  Canson’s other student papers are not as good.) cold-pressed, 140 lb. watercolor paper 9” x 12” or 10”x 15”, block or pad

PAINT—Cotman or Academy 8ml tubes

• Alizarin Crimson Hue
• Sap Green
• Cadmium Red
• Pale Ultramarine Blue
• Cadmium Yellow
• Pale Cerulean
• Burnt Umber

BRUSHES-Make sure that any brushes you buy are watercolor brushes.  Oil or acrylic brushes won’t work well.  If you have no watercolor brushes you can start with Princeton Artist Neptune Series 4750 Size 10 round and optional 1” flat.  Bring all of your watercolor brushes if you have them.

TAPE--¾” Art Tape white OR ¾” Drafting Tape tan--please do not use brightly colored painting tapes.  They will throw off your color.

BOARD-If you bring loose paper you will need a board to tape it to.

PALETTE-You need a white surface that is impervious to water to squeeze your paints onto and large enough (at least dinner plate size) to mix colors.  There are many kinds for purchase.  If you are just starting out, a clean white plate will do but, don’t plan to eat off of it again.

WATER CONTAINER - Please bring a wide mouth container approximately one quart in size.  Please do not bring a small container.  Your water will be dirty too quickly.  Water will be available at the site.

RAGS-Lintless, absorbent, preferably white, cotton sheeting is good, cotton jersey is best.

PENCILS AND ERASERS

• #2 or B pencil
• Kneaded and plastic eraser 

A REALLY BIG BAG-Or something, to carry all this in

OTHER THINGS RECOMMENDED FOR AN OUTDOOR CLASS

• Chairs and painting water will be provided
• Adequate/appropriate clothing
• Water to drink.                         
• Sunscreen                                 
• Insect repellant
• Hat
• Sturdy shoes